About Calithumpian
Thamesford truly comes alive during Calithumpian Weekend, a tradition rooted in over a century of community celebration. Originally held on the August Civic Holiday to attract visitors, the event evolved over the decades, moving to the May 24 weekend and growing through the efforts of dedicated local clubs and volunteers.
From early parades, baby shows, bicycle races, ball games, and carnival rides to fireworks, dances, tug-of-war competitions, craft displays, and canoe races, Calithumpian Weekend has always reflected the spirit of the town. Memorable highlights include Centennial-year beard contests, circus performances, street dances, brunches, and packed parades featuring local businesses and organizations.
Thanks to the generosity of volunteers, businesses, and community groups, Calithumpian Weekend continues to bring together people of all ages, celebrating Thamesford’s history, creativity, and strong sense of togetherness.
Executive Members
Sarah Smale
President
Hello Thamesford – You’re Beautiful!
I joined the Calithumpian Committee back in 2022 when the committee was last really needing volunteers.
I was so excited to join as Calithumpian has been one of my favorite things since I was little. When you grow up in a village there isn’t much to do (at least back in the 90’s) so Calithumpian was something I really looked forward to each year. I have so many fond memories of Fireworks over the river, lawn mower races, the parade and of course the Midway. Full disclosure the clowns used to scare me!
Although Calithumpian looks a little different these days, I am truly honoured to be a part of such a wonderful event that brings the community together. This is my first year as President and will most likely be my last on the executive – so a little bittersweet 
Over the years I have also been in the role of secretary, VP and last year I had the pleasure of organizing the Cali Parade. I have learned and grown so much on this committee.
I am forever grateful for all Calithumpian has given me – Cheers!
Lisa Goodwin
Vice President
I grew up in Thamesford and have many fond memories of Calithumpian events and traditions over the years. My husband and I joined the committee in 2019 and I have been secretary, vice president as well as president during my time on the executive.
I really enjoy event planning and giving back to the community where I can. In my spare time I enjoy reading fiction novels, puzzles , traveling with my family and a relaxing spa day.
Kate Ball
Secretary
I joined the Calithumpian committee because I love how it brings the community together, and I want to help make sure this tradition sticks around for future generations — it’s things like this that make small-town living so great.
Stephanie Parr
Treasurer
I’ve lived in Thamesford since 2013, when my husband and I got married and chose this community as our home. Over the years I’ve come to truly appreciate the quiet, small‑town feel that makes Thamesford so special.
While I didn’t grow up here, I was fortunate to be part of a community that held similar events when I was young. Those experiences left lasting memories for me, and I hope our community events can do the same for families in Thamesford today.
Volunteering has always mattered to me, and I wanted to give my time in a way that supports the place I now call home while making use of my accounting background. Serving as treasurer allows me to contribute in a meaningful, practical way and stay connected to the people and traditions that help our community thrive.
Melina Furlong
Marketing
New to Thamesford and already feeling right at home, I’m excited to raise my family in such a warm, close-knit community. With a background in marketing and design, I love mixing creativity with community, helping keep local traditions going while adding a few fresh ideas along the way. I also work part-time at JC Graphics.
Outside of work, you’ll usually find me baking something, planning our next trip or kids’ birthday party, tracking down the best local restaurants, and saying yes to pretty much any local event or festival. If it’s happening around town, I already want to be there!
